Lipolysis refers to a procedure in which a fat-dissolving agent is injected into small fat deposits under the skin. The agent triggers the death of fat cells, thereby causing the breakdown of fat deposits. The procedure is not suitable for “melting away” abdominal fat deposits. However, good results are achieved with minor cosmetic procedures, such as those performed on the face and chin. This procedure should, however, be performed by experts.
Here you will find further information as well as a selection of lipolysis specialists.
Definition: Lipolysis
Lipolysis is a medical procedure designed to selectively destroy fat cells using an active ingredient. The goal is to break down fat deposits in the body. A common area of application is the chin region, for example, to reduce a double chin.
Injection lipolysis, or simply lipolysis, is used solely for aesthetic correction, e.g.,
- on the eyelids,
- the chin, or
- the cheeks, as well as
- in localized areas of the body.
It is not a treatment method for removing larger fat deposits in the abdominal or hip areas. In cases of excess weight, dietary and exercise adjustments should instead be made to lose weight.
Lipolysis can only be used to treat minor fat deposits following a successful diet and lasting lifestyle changes.
How does lipolysis work?
In lipolysis, a fat-dissolving active ingredient is injected through a very fine cannula at various points under the skin directly into the fatty tissue. The active ingredient consists of phosphatidylcholine and the fat-dissolving substance deoxycholic acid. The active ingredient breaks down the cell membranes of the fat cells.
The released fat accumulates in the blood and is further metabolized by the liver or excreted later.
This process proceeds relatively slowly. Lipolysis can reduce the fat layer by approximately 1 cm per treatment.
In most cases, the treatment is repeated two to four times over the course of eight weeks. It can be performed on an outpatient basis. Generally, general anesthesia is not required. The area where lipolysis is to be performed is numbed locally beforehand using pain-relieving ointments.
During lipolysis, an active ingredient breaks down fat cells © Svitlana | AdobeStock
Side Effects of Lipolysis
Injection lipolysis is a safe treatment when performed by experienced therapists. However, side effects can occur. Redness, burning, and itching in the treated areas are common. In some cases, hematomas (bruises) may also form.
In severe cases, more extensive necrosis (tissue death) is also possible. However, with a rate of 1 case per 25,000 procedures, this is a very rare complication.
As a rule, the side effects disappear without any lasting effects within a few days. Lumps, dimples, or prolonged sensory disturbances are very rare.
Contraindications for Lipolysis
Patients with circulatory disorders should not undergo lipolysis. People who take blood-thinning medications or suffer from coagulation disorders must also refrain from the procedure. In these cases, there is a risk of triggering more severe bleeding. Furthermore, the effects of the fat-dissolving agents have not yet been studied in these patients.
Training and Experience Are Crucial to Success
Lipolysis is a cosmetic procedure. Therefore, the physician’s experience and level of training are very important factors for the success of the method.
Experts are organized, among other groups, within the Lipolysis Network. Without proper training and sufficient experience in lipolysis, this procedure carries a risk of improper treatment and failure. Patients should therefore research suitable centers and practitioners in advance.
Sources
- aerztezeitung.de/Medizin/Spritze-rueckt-Fettpolstern-und-Lipomen-zu-Leibe-288750.html
- flexikon.doccheck.com/de/Injektionslipolyse
- mesotherapie.org/lipolyse/
- network-globalhealth.com/network-globalhealth/forphysicians/network-lipolyse/
